Mayor Thomas M. Menino today declared a Snow Emergency and parking ban for the City of Boston will take effect TOMORROW, Thursday, January 2 at NOON. Boston Public Schools will be CLOSED FRIDAY, January 3. City business will be as usual tomorrow. Discounted parking will be available at 10 a.m. at several parking lots and garages to cars that display Boston resident parking stickers: http://www.cityofboston.gov/snow/parkingmap.asp

The latest forecasts indicate the storm is expected to result in up to 14 inches of snow in parts of the City, with heaviest snow fall beginning Thursday evening and continuing throughout the night. Blizzard-like conditions are expected Friday morning.

“What a New Year’s gift, to receive one last snowstorm as Mayor,” Mayor Menino said. “With more than a foot of snow expected in parts of the City, we are taking the necessary precautions to make sure the City is cleaned up as quickly as possible. I’m asking the public to stay off the roads throughout the duration of the storm and allow our crews to work.”

Members of the Mayor's Snow Team met this afternoon to discuss the latest storm related information and response plans for the weekend. The Snow Team will continue to monitor the forecast and provide updates throughout the weather event

Public Works

District Yards will open at 3 a.m. Thursday morning to begin pre-treating roads.

Crews are prepared for the snow event, and will have more than 500 pieces of equipment active on City streets Thursday evening.

The City is strongly encouraging commuters to use public transportation to travel into the City tomorrow.

During a Snow Emergency, parking is prohibited on all major arteries in Boston. These streets are posted with “Tow Zone No Parking During Snow Emergency” signs. A listing of major arteries and alternate parking can be found at http://www.cityofboston.gov/snow/parking/.

On streets other than major arteries, parking within 20 feet of an intersection or further than one foot from the curb is prohibited, as this impedes access for both emergency vehicles and snow plows.

During declared snow emergencies, discounted parking is available at several parking lots and garages to cars that display Boston resident parking stickers. Discounted rates take effect two hours prior to the snow emergency, and the City is asking garages to allow residents earlier access.

Cold Weather Safety Reminders

Carbon Monoxide is an odorless and tasteless gas that results from combustion and can quickly become fatal. Residents should clear snow and debris away from mufflers before starting the car and ensure that external vents are cleared of snow. If you are using a generator, make sure it is far enough away to vent air and gases away from the home.

Use public transportation whenever possible and avoid driving vehicles on slippery roads to keep roadways clear for plowing equipment and emergency vehicles.

Residents are encouraged to shovel out hydrants and catch basins near or abutting their property to assist our public safety agencies and protect against flooding.

Please check on elderly or vulnerable neighbors who may need help.

Use caution when walking near buildings that may have falling snow or ice.

Shoveling snow can pose a serious health safety risk to persons with heart disease and senior citizens. Residents should consider seeking the assistance of a family member, a helpful neighbor or hire someone to help.

The Mayor's 24-Hour Hotline will have additional staff on-hand and residents with weather-related questions or concerns, including down power lines, down trees or icy conditions, should call (617) 635-4500. The City's Shelter Commission asks that any resident who sees a potential medical emergency involving a homeless person dial 9-1-1. The City's shelters have activated emergency procedures today.

Residents are encouraged to use the City’s “Know Snow” program for access to other important storm-related information. To receive notifications, register for the city’s Alert Boston network at http://www.cityofboston.gov/snow/. If you would like to receive updates on the storm on Twitter, follow #bosnow, @NotifyBoston.